Albert Bonotto

1918 - 2011

Albert Bonotto passed away peacefully of natural causes in Bend, Ore., in the presence of his daughters Andrea McCart and Linda Bonotto on July 18, 2011.
Born of Italian immigrants on Sept. 25, 1918, Albert was raised both in Sacramento, Calif., and Klamath Falls, where he lived until moving to Bend to be closer to his family in 2008.
Albert was one of four sons, all of whom served in the armed services during World War II, with the exception of his youngest brother. Al, as he was known to his family and friends, finished his military service as a corporal serving in the National Guard in Hawaii and the Army in Europe until after the end of the war in 1946.
Married to Lorraine Ervin on April 13, 1940, they spent 67 years together in Klamath Falls. Al worked for Thomson Diggs Wholesale Hardware Company for many years before becoming the owner of Al's Toy House in both Klamath Falls and Medford. Al always enjoyed the challenge of his work. He not only sold toys and bikes, but was a certified locksmith and a generous Santa Claus during Christmas.
In his leisure time, Al was an avid fisherman with a boat "The Bon-otto" he kept in Gold Beach. With his brothers, Leo and Botch, or friends, he went deep sea fishing, mostly for salmon as the season and weather permitted. Also, with his wife, Lorraine, he enjoyed fishing and camping in their motor home mainly at Diamond Lake every summer.
Upon retiring, Al and Lorraine purchased a home in Mesa, Ariz., where they spent many winters. During that time, Al perfected his golf game and enjoyed the sport well into his 80s. They also enjoyed their three grandchildren Chelsea, Blake and Brendan and were always eager for their visits and to share time with them.
Survivors include his daughters Andrea McCart and Linda Bonotto of Bend; three grandchildren Chelsea Boeck of Bend, Blake Hanson of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Brendan Hanson of Aspen, Colo.; four curly haired great-granddaughters Lila and Cora Boeck and Ava and Luciana Hanson; and one bonus great-grandson Warren Stephenson.
He is preceded in death by his wife Lorraine Bonotto and three brothers Leo, Alfred and Idro Bonotto.
The family will be forever grateful for all his generosity and gifts. He fed us with his garden, he enriched our lives with his steadfast love and acceptance, and his honesty, loyalty, and work ethic have become a part of all of our lives. His presence on this earth will not be forgotten as he represented all the good and noble characteristics of "The Greatest Generation."
We also extend our appreciation to Silver Crest Adult Family Home, especially caregivers Tracy Rife and Amy Thompson, for their kind and compassionate treatment of Al and to Partners in Care (Hospice).
A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Klamath Falls.
In lieu of flowers, please plant a rose bush or fruit tree in his memory or donations can be made to Partners in Care (Hospice), 2075 N.E. Wyatt Court, Bend, OR 97701.